Archives

From big data to open data, the discussion of digital data is a hot topic for cities right now. And for good reason, digital data promises to improve decision making by understanding the health of our cities while increasing transparency to citizens and stakeholders. While the use of data has long played a critical role in cities, new technology continues to enable previously unimagined sources and uses of data.

HD MADE works with clients to reimagine how they integrate digital into every part of their organization, programs and neighborhoods. Michael Martin, place-based innovation lead at HD MADE, discusses how a community gets there, what that looks like and what to do next.

In the wake of 9/11, author Stephen Johnson wrote in Wired that "density kills" and advocated turning to the decentralized vision of Frank Lloyd Wright’s 1939 Broadacre City as a way of protecting Americans in the future. As it turns out, he got it backwards: Density saves lives. The contemporary affinity for higher-density, mixed-use, walkable places in cities and suburbs alike arguably represents the single most significant contribution to public health — for those who can afford them — since World War II.

To head off problems before they become crises, do states need to monitor their local governments' finances and borrowing practices? Susan K. Urahn, Executive Vice President of the Pew Charitable Trusts, weighs in on the topic with a guest post.

If cities gave out Valentines, what would they say? We took a quick stab at it, and decided to offer a printable and downloadable versions-- so you can share or give them to the thought leaders and city advocates in your life! What would your City Valentine say?